9 Deadliest Amphibious Assault Ships: Number 3 Will Shock You

2. HMS Ocean (L12)

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Before decommissioning and sale to Brazil, HMS Ocean dominated as the Royal Navy's flagship, demonstrating extraordinary adaptability in global operations worldwide. Supporting helicopter operations in challenging environments, this helicopter carrier and assault ship transported 800 personnel plus their essential equipment. Its tremendous value in military and civilian activities was proven through successful deployments in countless NATO exercises and humanitarian relief efforts during devastating Hurricane Irma. The ship's flexible design influenced subsequent improvements in amphibious assault vessels across the globe. Throughout two remarkable decades, HMS Ocean's distinguished career included high-profile operations like the 2011 military intervention in Libya and dangerous counter-piracy missions in the treacherous Gulf of Aden. From the frozen Arctic Circle to scorching tropical seas, the vessel's exceptional engineering and adaptability were consistently evident. Its spacious hangar accommodated up to twelve aircraft, providing significant aviation potential for both military and humanitarian missions, while its flight deck supported five operational positions for helicopters simultaneously. During critical disaster relief efforts, the ship's extensive medical facilities, including a 20-bed sickbay and emergency operating theater, proved absolutely invaluable. Its lasting legacy continues shaping current amphibious assault ship design, particularly in crew comfort, operational flexibility, and mission adaptability areas.